What’s up, everybody? Eric Lindquist here to bring you a Monday Night Football breakdown of the Bengals visiting the Cowboys in Jerry World. Cincinnati is a 5.5-point favorite on the road, which may seem wild given its 4-8 record. But this line reflects the Bengals’ offense, especially when Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase are on the field. We have game lines, props and touchdown bets to explore, so let’s dive into our Week 14’s MNF best bets for the Bengals-Cowboys showdown! Also be sure to check out our NFL player prop betting strategy guide — or explore even more free NFL expert picks and +EV NFL bets!
Week 14 MNF Best Bets: Bengals-Cowboys Likes, Leans & Locks
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Bengals-Cowboys MNF Leans
Joe Burrow Over 8.5 Rushing Yards
Dallas ranks 31st in the NFL, giving up nearly 150 rushing yards per game. While much of that is to running backs, Burrow could be forced to use his legs more in a must-win scenario for Cincinnati. With the season on the line, I expect Burrow to do whatever it takes, including tucking the ball and running when necessary.
Tee Higgins Anytime Touchdown
I view Higgins as the best receiver in this Bengals offense — yes, over Chase (hot take, I know). While the odds for an anytime touchdown are sitting in the +150 to +160 range, I’d prefer a bit more value before locking it in. Still, it’s hard to ignore Higgins’ importance to this team given the offense is basically nonfunctioning when he is off the field.
Bengals-Cowboys MNF Like
I’m taking a half-unit shot on over 49.5 points at Caesars Sportsbook.
This total feels a little low, especially considering Cincinnati’s offensive explosiveness and defensive issues. While Dallas’ defense has some standout pieces, it has struggled against the run and in overall consistency. If Trevon Diggs is out, it could open the floodgates for the Bengals offense.
Dallas has also shown signs of life offensively, with Rico Dowdle stepping up in the running game. As both teams push the pace, I see value in the over, especially if injury news breaks favorably.
Bengals-Cowboys MNF Lock
My favorite play for this matchup is Chase Brown over 74.5 rushing yards.
Dallas is allowing 147.6 rushing yards per game, 31st in the league, and Brown has stepped into a bell-cow role for the Bengals with Zack Moss sidelined. Over the last two weeks, Brown has faced the Steelers and Chargers, two tough defensive fronts, and still managed to produce. Against this Cowboys defense that has struggled mightily against the run, he should thrive.
Cincinnati is in desperation mode. With franchise-altering decisions looming for players like Chase and Higgins, the Bengals need to win this game to stay alive in the AFC playoff picture. Expect a heavy dose of Brown as the Bengals look to exploit Dallas’ weakness against the run.
